Westpac Smarts: Local innovation to global ambitions

Join Westpac and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce for the final Westpac Smarts session of the year, featuring a local innovation story that is reshaping a global industry and offering real-world insights for local businesses with global ambitions.

Christine Douglas and Chris Benham from The Village Goldsmith will share the journey behind Floeting®, a world-first diamond setting technology developed in Wellington that’s a step away from traditional claws and clasps, allowing the diamond to appear to float.

Hear how this bold idea evolved into an inspiring story of global innovation, forged a landmark partnership with Tiffany & Co., and scaled to more than 50 countries - all while keeping design and IP anchored in Wellington.

Floeting® has captured the attention of the world’s luxury sector, with the Financial Times calling it “gravity defying” and Vogue France saying the diamond appears “freed from all metal, shining as if suspended above the jewel.” Their achievements have been recognised nationally, with Chris Benham named the winner of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2025 New Zealand Product Category, alongside The Village Goldsmith receiving top honours at the NZ Hi-Tech Awards.

This is a relaxed, inspiring session for business leaders to sit back, connect, and reflect on how bold ideas backed by smart strategy can transform established industries.

Event details:

12:00pm - Networking

12:15pm – Presentation

1:15pm – Wrap-up

Chamber members and Westpac customers: Free entry

Non-members: $5.00 donated to Life Flight Trust through the Westpac Chopper Appeal